Perenara on Folau controversy: Polynesia has been sexually diverse since forever

Folau sparked controversy when asked on a Twitter thread what God’s plans for homosexuals are, with the Wallaby responding they are destined for hell.

This has prompted outrage from in the rugby community, with Chiefs scrum-half Brad Weber expressing his ‘disgust’ at Folau’s comments on Tuesday.

Perenara joined the fray on Wednesday, posting a series of tweets and was not quite as unequivocal in his condemnation, but still insisted there should be a zero tolerance approach to inciting further stigma and discrimination towards homosexuality.

“I’d like to add my voice to the conversation currently taking place. As professional rugby players, whether we like it or not, we are role models for a lot of young people. Notably, young Maori and Pasifika people,” wrote Perenara.

“You don’t need to look far to know that young Maori are overrepresented in youth suicide statistics and, as I understand it, even more so when you look to those who are part of the Rainbow community. Comments that cause further harm cannot be tolerated.

“Let it go on record that I am 100% against the comments that were made by Israel. It was not ok to say that. It’s not an attitude I want to see in the game I love. There is no justification for such harmful comments.

“To anyone, young Maori/Pasifika people especially, who may be struggling with their identity – please know that it is ok to be you. You are perfect as you are. Do not let these comments keep you from being yourself. Polynesia has been sexually diverse since forever.”